Learn more about your Henley and Thame election candidates

Polling Day is almost upon us and we've done a deep dive to find out more about your Parliamentary candidates in Thame and Henley.

There are seven candidates vying to become the MP: David Carpin – Independent; Nanda Manley-Browne - Labour Party; Caroline Anne Newton - The Conservative Party Candidate; Maryse Pomlett - Social Democratic Party; Jo Robb - The Green Party; Peter Shields - Reform UK; and Freddie Van Mierlo - Liberal Democrats.

The seat was previously held by Conservative MP John Howell, who succeeded Boris Johnson as MP for the Henley constituency in 2008. He announced earlier this year that he will be retiring and is not seeking re-election as Henley’s MP.

To read about why the candidates believe you should vote them, click here.

We asked each candidate to tell us more about themselves:

David Carpin – Independent

(Image: David Carpin)

How did you get into politics? I got into politics through UKIP and particularly, the EU Referendum. I met many well researched people, who loved their country, culture, history and faith. People who understood the UK constitution and how we gained our freedoms. People who enjoyed the idea of a small government that would not encroach on every aspect of their lives. A small government where national debt and taxation were low and that supported the private individuals inalienable rights. A government that would not sell out to international, globalist movements such as the United Nations, NATO, World Health Organisation, IPCC, European Union, Bilderberg Group and World Economic Forum.

Which area of politics do you enjoy the most? I enjoy Constitutional Politics and Law. I majored in Law when at University. Unpicking the tangled web of international treaties, explaining the essential loss of national sovereignty, loss of freedoms, huge financial cost and alienation from the very Parliamentary government, that is supposed to represent the people.

What is the most difficult part of your job? The most difficult part of the job is watching all the main parties become one Uni-party and embrace globalism. Then to watch the electorate voting on policies that will impoverish them. Net Zero, the Covid response, Ukraine Response, Foreign Aid and uncontrolled migration are examples of policies designed to impoverish the UK citizen.

What do you love the most about the Henley/Thame constituency? (All three of my Children attend Henley Sea Cadets. It is great to see them growing up, moving through the ranks, taking part in local activities and representing the local area

What is your main hobby/love/passion outside of politics? Outside of politics, I play piano, play chess and read. I run a Freedom of Expression Group called Winston Smiths Literary Review. I give free local talks to Oxfordshire residents and invite speakers to talk, debate and take questions from the floor. We discuss subjects such as 'Money, Banking and Finance. How the keep you poor'. 'Climate Change, All is Well. All will be Well'. 'The COVID Years'. 'Post war immigration'. 'The European Union. A Corporatist Racket. How the UK was Shoehorned into the Common Market'

Nanda Manley-Browne - Labour Party

Nanda Manley-Browne (Image: Nanda Manley-Browne)

How did you get into politics? I've always been deeply passionate about social justice and community service. My journey into politics began with my involvement in local grassroots movements, where I saw firsthand the impact of political decisions on people's lives. I realised that to effect meaningful change, I needed to be part of the decision making process. This drive led me to take on various roles, serving as a council cabinet member, a senior NHS manager, a school governor, and a charity trustee, and eventually culminating in my candidacy for Labour. It's been an incredible journey of learning and growth, motivated by a desire to make a real difference in people's lives.

How do you feel stepping into the role fairly last minute this year? Becoming Labour's candidate at a late stage has been both challenging and exhilarating. It's a true honour and I do wish I had more time. It's a whirlwind, but I'm fuelled by the support and encouragement of local party members and the community. I believe that my fresh perspective and determination to address the urgent issues we face like restoring economic stability and tackling raw sewage in our riverways can make a significant impact. The urgency of the situation has only heightened my commitment to fighting for the values I believe in and being a strong voice within a majority Labour Government for Henley and Thame.

What is the most difficult part of your job? The most difficult part of my job is balancing the immediate needs of constituents with the long-term goals of our policies. There's always a tension between addressing urgent issues and working on systemic changes that will prevent those issues from recurring. It can also be challenging to navigate the political landscape and ensure that all voices are heard, especially those from underrepresented communities. However, these challenges are also what make the work so rewarding, as overcoming them means making a real difference.

What do you love the most about the Henley/Thame constituency? What I love most about the Henley and Thame constituency is its vibrant community spirit. Whether it's the iconic Royal Regatta in Henley or the charming markets in Thame, there's a unique blend of tradition and innovation here. The people are incredibly engaged and passionate about their community, and there's a strong sense of togetherness. It's a beautiful area with rich history, but it's the warmth and resilience of the residents that truly make it special.

What is your main hobby/love/passion outside of politics? Outside of politics, I love the theatre and supporting our cultural arts. I've been involved in local theatre productions and believe in the transformative power of the arts to bring people together and foster a sense of community. There's something magical about seeing a story come to life on stage and experiencing that shared moment with an audience. I also love spending time with my family and my little girl, exploring the rich cultural heritage around Henley and Thame and engaging in creative pursuits like writing and reading. These activities not only help me relax but also keep me connected to the community I serve.

Caroline Anne Newton - The Conservative Party Candidate

Caroline Anne Newton (Image: Caroline Anne Newton)

How did you get into politics? I've always been interested in policy and politics - but initially as an observer rather than ever meaning to be a politician. I studied modern history at Cambridge,  joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office as a graduate, and then became a journalist, producing BBC flagship programmes like Today and 10 O'Clock News. But I never thought of going into politics until a bi-election took place in my home division for Oxfordshire County Council. I stood and was elected - and discovered the pleasure of really contributing to my community.

Which areas of politics do you enjoy most? Without a doubt when I've been able to make a real difference to someone's life - when I've been able truly to help. It stills make me happy to remember the homeless woman I helped get off the streets during COVID, and the family who were living in a really cramped, inadequate flat who I helped move into a much better home. Also, with this election, I'm loving the sense of working in a really motivated, enthusiastic team towards a clear, shared goal.

What's the most difficult part of the job? Definitely the social media abuse. Of course social media is an important way to communicate with people. But I find it extraordinary how vile people think they can be both to me and those people brave enough to speak up for me online. Honestly I just don't think I'll ever understand that.

What do I love most about the Henley/Thame constituency? Well it's my home and always has been. I joke it must be in my DNA as I've been absorbing it since before I was born. My childhood memories are all here, I was married here and we've brought up our children here. 3 generations of my family are buried here.  I love our village communities; the beech woods in the Chilterns, particularly in spring when the leaves are fresh green and the ground is awash with a haze of bluebells.  And I love the River Thames: I used to row on it and I swim in it; and one of my earliest memories - as a toddler - was the thrill of watching weir water rushing under the foot bridge at March Lock in Henley. And of course the Regatta.

What's my main hobby/love/passion? Other than my family and friends? I love gardening (though nature is definitely on top in our garden at the moment!) and history.

 Maryse Pomlett - Social Democratic Party

(Image:  Maryse Pomlett)

How did you get into politics? I got into politics as I was frustrated by the offer provided by the main political parties.

What would you be doing if you weren’t in politics? I am recently retired and enjoy doing voluntary work for a well valued  essential local charity.

What is the most difficult part of your job? I generally enjoy a challenge

What do you love the most about the Henley/Thame constituency? I love the Thames, the Chilterns.

What is your main hobby/love/passion outside of politics? I enjoy walking, reading and I have an allotment.

Jo Robb - The Green Party

Jo Robb (Image: Jo Robb)

How did you first get into politics? I am not a career politician. I joined the Green Party in 2019 because of a deep concern at the lack of action on climate change and fear for the future that my sons would inherit. Since then, I've become aware of the crisis of inequality in our country and the appalling impact of austerity on the most vulnerable people in our society. I am in politics because I want to see a fairer, greener country where everyone can live with dignity and can reach their potential in life.

What part of your job do you love the most? It is a privilege to be a local councillor and to represent the residents in my ward. I most enjoy case work - helping people in their dealings with the council or with organisations like Thames Water. Being a councillor means having access. It is an honour to be able to use my position and voice to speak up for local people. I also love working with councillors from other parties to get things done, whether that be on the Pension Fund Committee where we work together for the good of the pension fund and our members, on the Planning Committee or on the Police and Crime Panel.

What is the most difficult part of your job? Being a councillor involves a great many evening meetings and a lot of work. As every working parent knows, it can be a difficult juggle with children and pets! On a wider level, seeing the impacts of austerity on our most vulnerable residents, even in this, one of the most affluent constituencies in the country, can be very difficult and angering.

What do you love the most about the Henley/Thame constituency? We are so lucky to have more than 30 miles of the River Thames running through this constituency. The river and its tributaries such as the River Thame, are the heart of our wonderful local area. Discovering and connecting with our rivers through swimming, paddle boarding or walking is, for me, food for the soul and is the best thing about living in this beautiful part of the country.

If you had to do a job outside of politics, what would you choose? I have just finished my first year of training to become a psychotherapist. Listening to people in a compassionate and non-judgmental way is a key skill in being a local councillor and in counselling. But if I couldn't be a therapist or a politician, I would like to be Stevie Nicks. If she ever retires, I'd be very happy to take on her job.

Peter Shields - Reform UK

Peter Shields (Image: Peter Shields)

Mr Shields was unable to answer further questions.

Freddie Van Mierlo - Liberal Democrats

Freddie Van Mierlo (Image: Freddie Van Mierlo)

How did you first get into politics? I see politics as the main way of achieving long lasting, durable change. It is the way I feel I can best contribute to doing good for our local area and for the people who live here.

How do you feel about people using ‘tactical voting’ in elections? Would you feel less trusted/confident in the role being voted in this way? We're fighting for every vote. The next MP for Henley and Thame will either be another Conservative, or change with the Liberal Democrats. Labour have declared the seat a 'non-priority' seat and the Greens cannot win here either. We have a unique opportunity in Henley and Thame to restore trust in politics and elect a local Liberal Democrat champion.

What is the most difficult part of your job? Balancing how to best use my time is a challenge, but if you want something doing well, give it to a busy person!

What do you love the most about the Henley/Thame constituency? The natural environment in South Oxfordshire is high up there, it's an extremely special part of England. However, I'd also say that I love Henley & Thame and the surrounding villages for their strong, kind and welcoming communities. Through my roles on the County and District Councils I've seen just how dedicated the people of this constituency are to doing good for their local area and for other people

What is your main passion/love/hobby outside of politics? Outside of politics, I love spending time with my baby girl, wife and two dogs.